Combination skin is one of the most common skin types, but also one of the most complex. You may have experienced an oily forehead or nose – while your cheeks feel dry and tight. This is due to uneven sebum production, which requires a balanced and targeted skincare routine.
In this post, we dive into:
- How to identify combination skin
- What ingredients and routines work
- And how to choose products that adapt to the different zones of the skin
Characteristics of combination skin
| Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|
| Oil in the T-zone | Oily skin on forehead, nose and chin – shiny during the day |
| Dry cheeks | Dryness, tightness and possible redness around the cheekbones and jawline |
| Seasonal skin | Dryer in winter and oilier in summer |
| Reactive skin balance | Can be made worse by products that are too harsh or too greasy |
How to care for combination skin
The golden rule for combination skin is: different treatments for different areas – but without making it complicated.
1. Mild cleanser – both balancing and moisturizing
Use a gel cleanser with ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or centella asiatica. It should remove oil without drying out delicate areas.
2. The two-tone method
- Use a mild toner for the entire face
- If necessary, use a mild astringent toner only in the T-zone to control oil
3. Moisture – both light and adapted
- Use a gel cream or oil-free moisturizer all over your face
- For the dry areas, you can spot treat with a richer cream or balm.
- Avoid heavy oil-based creams in oily zones
4. Sun protection every day
Choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen that won't clog pores in the T-zone.
Products for combination skin
We have handpicked our best Korean skincare products for you with combination skin type:
🔗 See the combination skin package here
Tip: Be aware of your skin's needs year-round – combination skin can change with the seasons. And if in doubt, always consult a dermatologist.
FAQ – Combination skin
What is combination skin?
Combination skin means that some parts of the face are oily (typically the T-zone), while other parts – like the cheeks and jawline – are dry or normal. This requires targeted skincare to achieve balance.
What products are good for combination skin?
Light gel cleansers, oil-free moisturizers, niacinamide serums, and toners with soothing ingredients like centella or aloe vera. Avoid alcohol and highly drying products.
How do I care for both dry and oily skin at the same time?
Use a light moisturizer all over your face and spot treat dry areas with richer products. You can also use different toners for different zones.
Is Korean skincare good for combination skin?
Yes! K-beauty is known for layering care with light, hydrating products and gentle active ingredients. It's perfect for balancing combination skin without overstimulating.